Hollyhocks Alcea species

These splendid perennials are amongst the most colourful of hardy plants. Originally introduced from Turkey in 1573 they quickly became the mainstay of the flower gardens and have remained popular ever since. The selections we offer are so robust that they quickly develop to flower 6 months from seed. Either sow in late summer or early spring gently push the seed directly into the ground where you intend the plants to flower or into little pots, just cover with a little seed compost or garden soil and keep moist until germination. If you love your hollyhocks and already have a collection of older plants save seed from your favourites and grow on young plants and replant them in a fresh spot. Discard the older plants and then you will avoid a fungal infection called rust.